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THE ASSASSIN 



A Tragedy in Four Acts 

By 

Hervey White 



The Maverick Press 
Woodstock, N. Y. 



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^$i 



Copyright 1911 Hervey White 



©CLD 28227 



ACT I 



Scene: The vacant stage of the Boca d'Oro Theatre in 
Miramonte, a capital of a South American Republic. 

From the windows in the flies at the right come the 
strains of martial music and the noise of a procession 
passing, shouts, applause, etc., first faint, then coming 
nearer. A call-boy rushes in and shouts to the dressing- 
rooms, 'The Emperor! The Emperor! This way!' and 
then rushes back, right. Immediately a crowd of actors 
half made-up, and dressed in Greek costume, come out 
pell-mell, and run to the right flies. Their cheers can 
be heard as the procession passes under the windows. 

The music suddenly grows faint, and then comes in 
strong again from the windows on the left as the pro- 
cession has rounded the corner. Whereupon, the actors 
dash madly across the stage to the left flies. They are 
waving their tunics, scarfs, anything, and shrieking in 
a frenzy of enthusiasm, 'The Emperor! Viva! Viva! 
The Emperor ! ' Cheers and music then on the left , 

gradually dying away. Finally the actors return to their 
dressing rooms in a limp and panting condition but ex- 
claiming with wonder and delight. As they retire, Joe, 
the property man, and Harold May, his nephew from 
the ranchos, are left on the stage. Joe is middle-aged, 
blonde, a bit of a philosopher: Harold is also blonde, 
but a handsome giant on fire with the ideals of youth 
and at present pale with suppressed enthusiasm. Joe, 
with a shrug of patience, begins picking up and put- 
ing together some of the damaged properties strewn on 
the stage in the recent flight across it. 
Joe. Now, boy, the show is past, we have our work to 

do. 



Harold. Did you see his face? Was it not wonderful? 
Joe. His face? Of course I saw it. What should I be 
looking at, his uniform? Not but I saw that, too. He 

wears more gold of late. 
Harold. His face was noble; set with high resolve. 
Joe. A mask to cover his ambition up. Come, let's to 

work. Hold you this steadv. 
Harold, (still gazing into space.) I never can forget 
that face. It bore the dignity of other worlds. 
Joe. For my part I would rather see it in the fight, 
blackened with powder-smoke, and torn with fury. I 
like not warriors when they turn toward peace. 
Harold. He is our great dictator. 
Joe. Emperor, you should be saying. 
Harold. I do not fear the word. He is our emperor. 
Joe. Fools' tongues are quick familiar with new words. 

Here, look at what you do. 
Harold. I see him there, so stately, mild, and calm, 
turning from fate of Avar to faith of peace. 
Joe. 'Twere better you should see this nail I'm driving. 
You're less apt to come out with a damaged thumb. As 
for heroes, if that's what you've come to the city to see, 
why, you will have them on this stage in the course of 
an hour; just as big heroes as your Emperor, too. Did I 
not tell you, you would see Philip LeGrand? 
Harold. My father has often preached against the stage. 
Joe. As I have often preached against your mother for 
marrying your father. Still, she did well enough. 
Harold. And, yet, I have often longed to be an actor. 
Joe. Well, being an actor, and longing to be one, are 
as far apart as you and Philip LeGrand himself. Hand 
me my saw. (Saws off stick.) Then, too, La Teresita is 
coming this afternoon to try one of her dances. She's 
greater than Philip LeGrand in my eye; though there 
are plenty who will not agree with me in that. 
Harold. It were better I did not see them today. After 
beholding the Emperor's face I should be shallow to be 

diverted by a play-actor. 

Joe. Oh, things come hot and then cold in the city. 

You have to get used to it, my boy. 



(Enter Teresita Flo res in dancing costume. She is about 
thirty, capricious, passionate. ) 
Teresita. All alone, Joe? 
Joe. All alone, Miss. 
Teresita. Now you are not alone, either. 
Joe. Only my nephew from the ranchos, Miss. He 

doesn't count. 
Teresita. Every young man counts one, Joe. 
Joe. Oho ! And the old men? Do they count for noth- 
ing, Miss Flores? 
Teresita. After an old man has counted a million, 
why, sometimes, only sometimes, we - consider him. 
But I should hardly say we counted him, even then. 
(Turning very kindly to Harold May,) What is your 

name, youth? 
Harold, (with some confusion.) Harold is my name: 

Harold May. 
Teresita. That is why your hair is so flaxen; and 
curling, too. But where 's your curling beard? 
Harold. I shaved it off after coming to the city. Uncle 
Joe said no one wore a beard in the city. 
Teresita. Uncle Joe is a fool. Eh, Joe? 
Joe. If you say so, Miss. But I think I was right. 
Teresita. It is the way of fools. Let your beard grow, 
boy, let it grow. And your name, you tell me, is George. 
Harold. My name is Harold. 

Teresita. No, I think it is George. St. George I shall 
call you, I think. Have you ever killed any dragons? 
Harold. Dragons don't grow on the plains. If they 
did, I don't think I could kill them. I can't kill a calf, 
or a sheep. Everybody says I'm a coward. 
Teresita. I don't say that, and I am Teresita. You 

will remember? 
Harold. Yes. 

Teresita. Yes, what, youth? 
Harold. I will remember. 

Teresita. What will you remember, St. George? 
Harold, (confusedly.) That you are Teresita. 
Teresita. Very good. And you say the name prettily. 
Now, St. George, I am enslaved by a dragon. 



Harold. A - 

Teresita. A Rosenbug: a manager, who eats me. I am 
the rose. He is the bug. Kill him. I think he is coming. 

I'll run away, (exit.) 
(Enter Charles Rosenberg, manager. He is middle-aged 

successful, slightly corpulent.) 
Rosenberg, (to Joe.) Seen anything of Teresita this 

morning? 
Joe. She's in her dressing-room, sir. 
Rosenberg. Oh! She is. Who is this young fellow here? 
Joe. My nephew, sir, visiting from the ranchos. 
Harold. My name is St. G - 

Rosenberg. Never mind your name. I don't care to 
hear it. I don't judge people by their names; I judge 
them by what they do. Joe, go to the door of number 
eight and tell Miss Flores that Mr. Rosenberg is here. 
Tell her he is waiting, understand? 
Joe. Yes, sir. 

Rosenberg, (to Harold,) So, you have just come 
down from the ranchob, St. Clair? 
Harold. My name is Harold May. 
Rosenberg. You told me it was St. Clair. I never for- 
get names. I suppose you want to be an actor. 
Harold. Why, I had thought - 

Rosenberg. Yes: they all think. But after a time they 
get over it. I wanted to be an actor, too, once. Now, I 

know better, I am a manager. 
Harold. I don't think I could ever be a manager. 
Rosenberg. No: everybody can't. But if you want 
work with your uncle, I think I can give you a job. 
Why doesn't that confounded - 

Teresita. (entering quickly.) I am here, Mr. Rosen- 
berg. 
Rosenberg. I was swearing at Joe. Good morning 
Miss Flores. Joe, why haven't you got these things out 
of the way? (Joe hurries to move back furniture.) 

You are more charming than ever, Miss Flores. 
Teresita. When you are at liberty, Mr. Rosenberg, I 

will show you the new dance I was speaking of. 
Rosenberg. I am ready; I am quite ready, Miss Flores. 



Indeed, I have been waiting five minutes. (goes into a 
box.) Proceed, Miss Flores, proceed, (to orchestra-con- 
ductor,) Ricci, all ready. (music starts up.) 
Teresita, (to Harold, who is retiring.) No: You shall 
stand there, my St. George, then I will dance only to 
you. (She motions him to the wing next Rosenberg, 
who does not see this as he is turned toward the orches- 
tra for the moment.) 
(The dance begins. As it goes on, other actors in Greek 
costume come in at the back of the stage, pass on, or 
pause to watch the dancing. Among them is Mary 
Avion, and Harold, who has been watching Teresita, 
quite absorbed, looks up as from a dream and starts for- 
ward, first amazed, then confused, then ashamed. Tere- 
sita whirls around with fire in her eye, and, seeing Ma- 
ry, turns to Rosenberg in a passion.) 
Teresita. I beg pardon, Mr. Rosenberg, but do I have 
this hour for rehearsal, or does that school -girl, yonder, 

have the whole day? 
Mary. Forgive me. I did not mean to interrupt. I 
was so charmed with your dancing, Miss Flores, 
Teresita. Or with the beauty of that boy in the flies. 
Rosenberg. Miss Avion, and all others, retire. Pro- 
ceed, Miss Flores, proceed. 
(Mary and others retire: Teresita goes on with the 

dance, but petulantly, passionately, entreatingly. Har- 
old keeps his eyes on the ground, his confusion in every 
way evident. Teresita finally stops with a fling.) 
Teresita. That is all. It is finished, Mr. Rosenberg. 
Rosenberg. And a masterpiece, a charmer, Miss Flores. 
We will have it this very night. It will save the produc- 
tion. A work of genius, Miss Flores! A capital work of 

genius. 
(While Teresita is standing but half satisfied, the actors 
again enter at the back but reluctantly, and as if urged 
from behind. Mr. Rosenberg flies into a rage at the in- 
terruption.) 
Rosenberg . Can you not wait, you blundering logger 

heads ?- 
An actor. But Mr. LeGrand says it is eleven o'clock. 



10 

Rosenberg. Mr LeGrand! Who is Mr. LeGrand? I 
am Mr. Rosenberg, take notice. 
(Enter Philip LeGrand and Fanny Valdez in riding 
costume, Mary Avion and others in Greek costume.) 
Philip. And you were asking for Mr. LeGrand? 
(He bows in gay mockery. He is in good spirits, is 
dark, handsome, on fire with energy. Everybody is 
worshipping him, and his vanity is at the height of its 
happiness. He is dressed most elegantly in riding cos- 
tume, with whip, spurs, and high boots. When he sees 
Teresita, he ignores Mr. Rosenberg entirely and turns 
to her.) Buenos dias, little sister, Teresita. 
Teresita, (whirls and gives him both hands.) I will 
dance for you, Philip LeGrand. Mr. Rosenberg, there 
is another part, I had forgotten; Do me the kindness to 

call the music again. 
(Rosenberg goes into his box again much discomfited.) 
Philip. And I will sit at your feet. 
Teresita. It is where you belong, sir, I grant you. 
But this time I will not allow it. No: stand in front of 
that country lumpkin there. 

Philip, (looks at Harold) I fear, sir, you have been 

slow in your compliments. 
Teresita. Musical Musical 

(The music strikes up, and, as she dances, Philip an- 
swers her in gesture, and then in complementary dance 
his arms extended as if to embrace her, she, evading, 
coquetting, inviting. All gather round and applaud: 
Fanny's jealousy is obvious. When the dance has end- 
ed in a whirl, Rosenberg advances, also applauding.) 
Rosenberg. I will have to engage you in a new role, 

Mr. LeGrand. 
Teresita. Now, I must go to my breakfast. You may 
kiss my hand, Sir Philip, (to Harold.) Goodbye, stu- 
pid youth, I forgive you, (exit.) 
Rosenberg. One moment, Miss Flores, at your room, 
(toothers.) The rest of you, make ready, and sharp. 
(Crosses to Fanny.) Ah! Mrs. Valdez! Delighted! 
Back to your old haunts, I see. 
Fanny. I have been for a ride with Mr. LeGrand. 



11 

Rosenberg. Ah! Charming! Will you stay and see 

the rehearsal? 
Fanny. I shall be delighted, if it is not against the 

rules. 

Kosenberg. With you, Mrs. Valdez, there are no rules. 

But when will you be at leisure, that I can see you? 

Fanny. Can you call tomorrow, at half past two? 

Rosenberg. Delighted! You know, your wish is my 

command. 
Fanny. You will not forget the time? Half past two. 
Rosenberg. I never forget an appointment, Mrs. Valdez. 
Fanny. Don't forget this one. 

(Rosenberg goes out after Teresita. Philip, who has 

been speaking with Mary, comes forward to Fanny.) 
Fanny, (with mock humility.) Number three is at 

your service, Sir Philip. 
Philip. Nonsense, Fanny! Make an end to your grand 

manner. 
Fanny. The Spanish coquette disposed of with an ap- 
pointment, - 
Philip. Pshaw! Tush! 

Fanny. The doll-faced school-girl always ready at any 

moment, - 
Philip. Have we no more serious business here than 

quarrelling? 

Fanny, (changing suddenly to strong purpose.) Did 

you see his face, today, in the procession? 

Philip, (glancing around to make sure that they are 

not overheard.) Of course I saw it, but is this a place 

to talk? 
Fanny. I hate him! I hate him! I hate him! 
Philip. It is not him I hate. It is his position; his 
power. What do free men with an Emperor? 
Fanny. He conquered my father. I hate him. 
Philip. The time draws near when he, too, shall be 

conquered. 
Fanny. Oh, Philip, you hold true in your resolve? 

You will not fail us Philip? 
Philip, (peevishly.) Must I always be rehearsing you 
my vows? You will have me exhausted before the first 



12 



night of performance. 

Fanny. You were so gay when you danced with that 

woman. 
Piiilip. Would you have me pensive? That would 
rouse up their suspicions. It was Hamlet's great mis- 
take that he was moody. 
Fanny. When you talked with that school -girl you 

were sombre. 
Philip. Must you always be speaking of Miss Avion? 
Fanny. I would speak of what interests you. 
Philip. I must hasten. It is time for me to dress. 
Fanny. You will come to me tomorrow at three? 
Philip. If you ask me that again I will not come. 
Have I not a dozen times made that appointment? 
Fanny. Oh, Philip, you know love is doubting. I am 
torn by my doubts and my fears. 
Philip. Tear not me, I'll not endure it. (Changing.) 
There's someone. (Enter Rosenberg.) 
Rosenberg. We begin, Mr. LeGrand, in two minutes. 
Philip. That will oblige me to wait one minute on you. 
Rosenberg. Mrs. Valdez, may I have a word with you 
aside? Mr. LeGrand must not be interrupted. 

(He leads Fanny out.) 
Philip. 'Tis a pity it were not he who is the Emperor. 
But an artist must not waste lead on a manager. 
(Enter Mary in Greek costume.) 
Ah, child, you come like my good angel. 
Mary. I am neither, Mr. LeGrand. 
Philip. Neither what, Mary? 
Mary. Neither a child, nor an angel. 
Philip. To me, I think, you are both. We are all chil- 
dren until we have sinned. 
Mary. I have sinned along with all mortals. 
Philip. But have repented, and therefore are an angel. 
Mary. Are you not going to dress for rehearsal? 
Philip. No: you did not say that aright. 
Mary. How, then, should I have said it? 
Philip. Are you not going to dress, Philip, for rehearsal. 
Mary. I think Philip, often, but cannot say it. 
Philip. Why can you not say it, little Mary? 



Mary. I do not know: but I cannot. 
Philip. Because saying it would be sin? 
Mary. To think sin is as bad is to say it. 
Philip. But you can't help thinking of Philip? 
Mary. I think of it all the day long. 
Philip. Tell me what you think, child, of Philip? 
Mary. I am so anxious, so anxious about you. 
Philip. Why should my sweetheart be anxious? 
Mary. Philip, are you not working against the right? 
They say that you belong to some societies that are talk- 
ing against the Emperor, Philip. 
Philip. Is it so unusual a thing to talk against the 
Emperor? But you are right. It is a fault to talk. 
Mary. I do not like this play that you have written. I 
do not like its name, 'The Assassin'. It is such a terri- 
ble name. It strikes terror to my heart. And, oh, Phil- 
ip, I do not like the part you have given me. 
Philip. You do not like the part of loving me? 
Mary. Yes, yes: I like that part: my only part. But, 
Philip, I would love you in the right; and here I feel 

you wrong. I feel it, Philip. 
Philip There, there, child, what do you know of such 
matters? What does a woman know of questions of the 

state? 
Mary. There is one woman you are willing to consult. 
Philip. What! Is my little sweetheart growing jealous? 
Mary. That is a hard word to say to me, Philip. 
Philip. Forgive me. Listen, and I will give you expla- 
nation. Mrs. Valdez, (rogueishly,) or is it Teresita you 

were thinking of? 
Mary. Oh, Teresita! You know that I like Teresita. 
Philip. Well, then, Mrs. Valdez, dear wee one. 
Mary. You always call her Fanny when you speak to 

her. 
Philip. I know. But I want you to think of her only 

as Mrs. Valdez. 
Mary. Can I not think in your thoughts? 
Philip. No: no: God forbid, my little Mary. 
Mary. I am no smaller in stature than other women. 
Philip. It is because you are smaller in their frailties. 



1 ( 

There, Dear, you must respect Mrs. Valdez. She is the 
daughter of a great general, though a defeated one. She 
is the wife of a man famed throughout the country. She 
has a great capacity for politics and organization, and 
she is an old friend of mine. There, Mary. 
Mary. To be an old friend may be none the less dan- 
gerous. 
(Enter Fanny and Rosenberg) 
Rosenberg. What! Not ready, Mr. LeGrand? 
Fanny. He has other affairs more important than act- 
ing. 
Philip. I am ready, always ready, Mr. Rosenberg. 
Miss Avion and I were waiting for 3 r ou. 
Fanny. You did not seem very impatient. 
Philip. For you we were impatient, not for him. 
Rosenberg. Rehearsing without costume is impossible. 
Philip. As impossible as rehearsing without a set stage. 
If you will permit me to be candid, Mr. Rosenberg, it 
is you who shows lack of interest in the rehearsal. I am 
ready. The others have long been waiting. But our court 
room setting, our chairs for the tribunal, - 
Rosenberg. It will take but a moment to do that. (Call- 
ing,) Joe, I say, Joe, Joe, 
(Enter Joe and Harold.) 
Joe. Ready, sir. 

Rosenberg. Ready! What is ready? Arrange the stage 
at once for the court scene in Mr. LeGrand' s play. 
Joe. Yes, sir. 

(Meanwhile Philip and Fanny have gone out, left, and 
Mary has seated herself in the front of the stage and 
seems lost in thought and very dejected. Rosenberg 

goes out, right, fuming. 
Joe. (arranging chairs, steps and carpets with the help 
of assistants whom he calls in and directs.) Things are 
going criss-cross today. The Devil seems to have got 
hold of Mr. LeGrand, though I mean no insinuations 
against Mrs. Valdez. Oh, the women, the women, the 
women ! And yet, how would we get along without them? 
Harold, (pointing to Miss Avion.) The one they call 

Mary, who is she? 



Joe. What! You, too? Is the disease getting you? 
Harold. Who is she? 

Joe. Miss Avion, the leading lady in 'The Assassin'. 
Harold. She is in trouble. Do you think I could help 

her? 
Joe. Why not? You seemed to get on well with Tere- 
sita. Now, I am too old. Too old. Just think of that! 
Harold, (goes up to Mary.) You are in trouble, Miss 
Avion, - Mary, - oh, forgive me! 
Mary, (smiling at his confusion.) Why, yes, lam 

in trouble. I forgive you. 
Harold. I only wanted to ask if I might help you. 
Joe. Oh, to be young! Young! Young! 
Mary. I do not know who you are, nor whence you 
came, but your face is true; and, why, if any mortal 
could help me, I think it might be you. 
Harold. You mean, - you love Philip LeGrand, oh, 

forgive me ! 

Mary, (again smiling.) Why, yes, I love him. We 

all do that. But that is not the reason of my trouble. 

Harold. He has gone off with the wicked, sparkling 

lady. 
Mary. Why, even that. But it is not because I am 

left that I am grieving. 
Harold. I know. You are too good. You fear for him. 
Mary, (looking about in alarm.) Why, yes: I fear 

for him, and fear for others. 
Harold. It may be I can help you. You must tell me. 
Mary. No: No: It cannot be. I am mistaken. I have 
such foolish fears. Such vile suspicions. 
Harold. Who are the others for whom you are in fear? 
Mary. For us all. For the State. For the Emperor. 

There, I did not say it. lam only crazed. You must not 

hear me. 
Harold. I saw the Emperor ride by. 
Mary. He is noble! He is good! Say that you believe 

in him. 
Harold. He is the savior of our people. I have seen it. 
Mary. But his work is not yet ended ! Tell me ! Tell me ! 
Harold. His work is but begun. We must protect him. 



18 

Mary. Oh, I am glad to hear you speak. You are 
like my father. I was thinking when you came to me 
that my father could help me and he alone. But he is 
dead. He died fighting with the Emperor. You are like 
my father now I look at you. Tell me more. Do the 
souls of the dead come back in living bodies? 
Harold. No: No: Not that. It is new souls that are 

born. Not the old ones. 
Mary. There is none that can be helpful like a father. 
Harold. I, too, will be a father in good time. 
Mary. You mean?- Oh, you are good. God bless 
and help you. (breaks down crying.) 
Harold. Now tell me how I can help you in this thing. 
Mary. I must not speak. Besides, I know nothing. Oh, 

I must not. 
Harold. You have suspicions. 

Mary. They have no foundation. They are shadows. 
It is only a feeling that posesses me. 
Harold. I w T ould know that feeling. 
Mary. No: No: Do not urge me. I must not! 

Harold. It is for the Emperor. Him we honor most of 

all. 
Mary. Do not press me. I must go. (starts to go, then 
turns back) But watch the play, (goes out, then comes 
back again as if impelled) Watch the play, and if you, 
too, have suspicions, send a message, a telegram to the 
Emperor. Tell him not to come to the Boca d'Oro to- 
morrow night. Not to come ever to witness 'the Assass- 
in'. It is a fatal play. 
Harold. He would not give attention to a message sent 

by me. 
Mary. Then sign it. Sign it Jason. 
Harold. Jason! 
Mary. My father's name. He will hearken to the dead. 

(goes out.) 
Joe. Well, my boy, you seem to be in trouble. It's 
the second time today they've thrown you over. You be- 
gin well. I should say you have a genius for beginning. 
You get the house at the very first line and end up with 

cabbages and a freeze out. 



17 

Harold. What is this play they are rehearsing? 
Joe. You mean this one they are going to do today? 
Harold. She pointed here; to these chairs. 
Joe. It is Philip LeGrand 's play. One he wrote. It is 
called 'The Assassin', and pronounced to be a winner. 
It has never been presented as yet. Is billed for tomorrow 
night; the first performance. It is announced that even 
the Emperor is interested. Though usually he doesn't 
care for tragedy. He says he saw enough of that in the 
war. Now he wants only comedy or farce. 
Harold. Does the Emperor come here to see Philip Le 

Grand? 
Joe. To be sure he does. That is his box over there. 
You shall see how I deck it up with flags and the em- 
blems of tbe Republic. I mean the Empire. 
Harold. Will he be here tonight? 
Joe. No: you will have to wait one day. You can't 
eat everything all at once. If you did you would die of 
indigestion. Tonight, the play is Julius Caesar, Shakes- 
peare. Philip LeGrand will take the part of Brutus. 
Harold. And the Emperor sits over there! 
Joe. You will see! I will look out for that. But they 
are coming to try "The Assassin". The last act. I don't 
know why 'tis not the first one. The second is a good 
one where he stabs the Dictator. Oh, not the real one. 
You needn't jump. It's in the play. A Greek play they 
call it. But that's for the costume. Philip LeGrand is 
like a god in his Greek costume. You will see. He has 
the part of the man who stabs the Dictator. Oh, he is 
magnificent! The Dictator is on the right front. Same as 
you. And Philip runs across the stage and strikes him 
just like this, (runs and pretends to strike Harold) Then 
he holds up the dagger so calm and noble and says : 'So 
perish all the enemies of freedom.' Oh he is magnifi- 
cent! Magnificent! 
(Enter Rosenberg) 
Rosenberg. Joe. Start the bell boy for the rehearsal. 
(Exit Joe. Harold retires right, bell rings. Enter actors 
in a crowd. Philip is with Fanny and still in riding cos- 
tume) . 



18 

Rosenberg. I understood you were to be in costume, 

Mr. LeGrand. 
Philip. Ah, yes; so I was. Mrs. Valdez, will you sit in 
a box? Mr. Rosenburg, escort Mrs. Valdez to a box. You 
may as well stay and watch with her, Mr. Rosenberg. I 
will conduct the court scene today. Ah, yes, the costume. 
(He flings off his coat and waistcoat, tears his shirt open 
at the throat, then tears off the collar, cuffs and sleeves, 
leaving but a few tatters hanging. He binds a handker- 
chief around his head, seizes a white drapery from one 
of the girls, binding one end around his waist and throw- 
ing the other over his shoulder. All this is done as in a 
frenzy. Then he calls out with authority and all take 
their places quickly,) Let the court assemble, (the judges 
sit on either side a vacant chair. Mary comes in w T eeping, 
kisses the back of the chair and then crouches on a foot- 
stool in front of it,) 
Judge. Bring in the Assassin. 

(Enter guards escorting Philip bound, hair disheveled, 

etc.) 
Philip. Hold off your hands! (he walks boldly out and 
faces the tribunal) What is your will? 
Judge. You have killed our chief. 
Philip. I have killed him. What is your will? 
Judge. You confess yourself a traitor and assassin? 
Phild?. Assassin, yes. I glory in the word. But traitor, 
no; I am none. And I stand in this tribunal with its va- 
cant chair, to speak my loyalty of hand and heart to my 

dear fatherland. 
Judge. I say a traitor. 

Philip. No: I say you, no: and give you back denial 
hundred fold. Who is a traitor? Why, what can you say? 
A traitor is that man who, being trusted, still betrays 
the State, desires its ruin. That man am not I. Instead, 
behold in me the one who, fearless, strikes a tyrant 
down, who frees his country, gives his life for it. 
Judge. Was not this dead man our dear State's best 

friend? 
Philip. Friends still do often greater harm than 

foes. 



19 

Judge. Has he not been a friend as well to you? 

Philip. One of my oldest, best. 

Judge. Did he not promise you his daughter, here? 

E'en this one stricken low by your vile deed? 
Philip. His daughter he had promised me to wed. 
Mary. Oh, my beloved, I die. You kill me, husband. 

Striking my father, you have struck me, too. 
Philip. Ilene, my sweet, though all our joys were shat- 
tered by that blow, yet would I not withdraw the bloody 
sword so late I drave into your father's breast. What 
are our lives, our happiness, Beloved, compared with 
that great good, our noble State? What is our pretty tri- 
fling, transient joy to that eternal good, our fatherland? 
Let us not bind our eyes with selfish bands, but stand 
wide visioned when our duty calls to give up youth and 

hope for good of men. 
Mary. I loved my father. 

Philip. Loving him dead is dearer still to you than 
loving him alive in cowardice. Now we can love him for 
the good he did; his kindness, his affection, his great 
mind. The evil that he caused we bury here, and strew 
the grave with wet repentant flowers. 
Mary. He knew no evil. 

Philip. Intended none, I know. But those intending 
well, do oft-times ill, go oft astray of good through good 

intention. 
Mary. But he was wise as well. 

Philip. Wisdom when misdirected works more harm 
than petty folly easily discerned. 
Mary. I love the State. 

Philip. Love me, then, its defender, its true son; ev- 
en as you loved your father, its director. 
Mary. Your words are fair. If I but thought them 
true, I'd make my father's bier my bridal bed, and 
join you in procession to the tomb. 
Judge. Unnatural daughter! Woman, thy very fairest 
flowers of love spring from the dung-hill lust, wherein 
they flourish. Back, and hold thy peace! 
Philip. Though you should seal her lips with iron 
bands, yet would her eyes speak out their holy fire. And 



20 

though you wrought still more, - burned out her eyes, 
yet would her woman's heart cleave to the truth, which 
you, with all your learning and your life, must fumble 

blind before. 
Judge. Peace! Lead him out to death. 
Mary. Then must I follow him. 
Judge. Thy father is unburied. 

Mary. Let me be buried with him. Let us three lie in 
one grave, three martyrs to the State. 
Judge. Detain her. 

Mary. Who will detain a free-born woman here, when 

she has done no wrong? 
Judge. Lead them together, then. 
Philip. Before I go, I claim the right of speech vouch- 
safed to every man condemned to die. 
Judge. The people are enraged, they will not hear you. 
Mary. They will if I stand by. 
Judge. Speak on, then. 

Philip, (turning to mob.) My citizens, my friends: I 
am about to die in punishment for having killed a man, 
for which, according to our own just law, I must pay 
back the forfeit, life for life. In this, I am content. To 
die is the reward offered to all men when their work is 
done. There comes a time when every man can say, - 
'My goal is reached, and all, from this point on, will 
serve to weaken what I now have done.' So is it now with 
me. So was it with the man I killed today. Look how 
his blood, still red upon my hands, will mingle soon in 
harmony with mine, with hers as well, passing from me 
to her, to her who called him father, yet could stand and 
give him up as she doth give herself, as she gives me 
when State demands our doom. That man 

had lived his life. Whether for good or ill, Time 
still must tell. How shall we say who stand now as we 
do, blinded with civil strife but late subdued, struggling 
for breath of air from that fierce fray, which makes a 
brother but a hated foe? How shall we say what is the 
right and wrong? It may be that a man, such as was 
this, can come with wilful measures and compel the two 
foes struggling to release their hold, and set them once 



21 

at peace by greater might. This may be so, I doubt, but 
say it may. Tis said there is a time for tyranny and 
kings, when nothing else will serve. But this I do know, 
once that time is past, once peace has come and swords 
are beat to plows, there is no tyrant in the world can 
come, and, binding a free people for his gain, rule 
them. This time had come to him. 
Harold, (leaping forward in his excitement, forget- 
ing it is only a play) 'Tis false! It had not come. It 
comes to none. Once proven a man is good, once when 
his wisdom and his strength have brought peace and 
good will upon a land of strife, you have no right to say 
his heart has changed. He cannot change from noble- 
ness to greed. There is no tyranny in such a man. He is 

divine. 
Philip, (smiling) I have to thank you, sir. Your com- 
pliments are put so delicately, I could not take offence 
e'en though I wished. (to Rosenburg and Fanny) 

The play is ended. 

(Curtain ) 



ACT II 



(Scene: the library in the house of Mrs. Valdez. A large 
table is in the centre of the room. Enter Mr. Rosenberg, 
overdressed, fidgety, but triumphant. He seats himself 
in an easy chair then gets up and takes a pose at the table 
watching the door furtively. Then he walks. Then he 
tries another chair. Then he starts looking at the book- 
shelves. When Mrs. Valdez does come in he is taken by 
surprise after all and is conscious of feeling awkward.) 



Fanny. Always on time, Mr. Rosenberg. 
Rosenberg. It is the key to my success, Mrs. Valdez. 
Fanny. You are a successful man, Mr. Rosenberg. 
Rosenberg. Yes, I can say I have made my own way. 

I came a poor boy to the city. 
Fanny. Success is the greatest thing in the world. 
Rosenberg. Now, our poets say love is the greatest. 
Fanny. It is success in love that is greatest. Misprised 

love is but a poor thing. 

Rosenberg, (awkwardly) Speaking of love, Mrs. - - 

Fanny - May I please call you Fanny? 

Fanny, (roguishly) Not when my husband is present. 

Rosenberg. Oh, no, no, no, no, no, no. Believe me, I 

am nothing if not discreet. 
Fanny. You have had experience in affairs of the heart? 
Rosenberg. I flatter myself I am no novice. 
Fanny. Well, then, you may sometimes call me Fanny. 
Only sometimes do I give you permission. Let us say 
when I open my fan and hold it so. (takes attitude.) 
Rosenberg. I will remember. Believe me, I will re- 
member. 
Fanny. And when I close my fan, so, I will be Mrs. 



Valdez as always. 

Rosenberg. Believe me, I will not forget, Fanny. 
Fanny. Sir, my fan is closed. 

Rosenberg. You take me without warning, Mrs. Valdez. 
Fanny. In future give closer attention. Now, I am 

opening my fan. 
Rosenberg. Yes, Fanny. 

Fanny. And shall I call you Isaac at such times. Your 

name is Isaac is it not Mr. Rosenberg ? 

Rosenberg. Charles, Mrs. Valdez, Charles. I should 

think you'd remember from the papers. 

Fanny. My fan is still open Mr. Rosenberg. I have 

reason, I think, to be offended. 

Rosenberg. Fanny. Rut you are laughing at me. And 

you called me Mr. Rosenberg. I, too, have reason to be 

offended. 
Fanny. A man cannot be offended with a woman. 
Rosenberg. I meant to say pained, grieved, surprised. 
Fanny. Very well; I will retract. I will say Charles. 
Oh, yes, I remember the papers: Mr. Charles Rosenberg, 
presents Mr. Philip LeGrand, our greatest living trage- 
dian. 
Rosenberg. Oh, please let me not present Mr. Le- 
Grand! At least not this evening, dear Fanny. 
Fanny, (shutting up her fan with a snap.) Really, 
Mr. Rosenberg, I do not understand you. If you did not 
present Mr. Philip LeGrand how would you have access 

to my house ? 
Rosenberg. There, there: I might have known that 
would offend you. You know that I admire Mr. Le- 
Grand 's talent as much as anyone. I may even say it was 

I who discovered it. 
Fanny. It was not discovered. Mr. LeGrand, himself, 

announced it to the world. 

Rosenberg. At least, you should allow me some credit 

as a man of business - Mrs. Valdez. 

Fanny. It was because I give 3-011 credit as a man of 

business that I have asked for this appointment today, 

Mr. Rosenberg. 
Rosenberg. You will not call me Charles now ? 



24 

Fanny, (opening fan) Why not Charlie? 
Rosenberg. Yes, yes; but no, I like Charles belter. 
It goes better with my character, Fanny. It is more dig- 
nified, more serious. I am a serious man, Fanny: 
almost, I may say, I am a stern man. 
Fanny. They are the qualities I admire most in a man. 
Seriousness, sternness, and bravery. 
Rosenberg. Sometimes I think you admire me a little. 

Eh, Fanny? 
Fanny. Your deeds shall determine, Mr. Rosenberg. 
Rosenberg Oh, you want me to do something for you. 

I see. 
Fanny. I want you to let me take a part in the play 

tomorrow night. 
Rosenberg. In 'The Assassin'? You would have to 

speak to Mr. LeGrand. 
Fanny. He is willing. I have spoken to him. 
Rosenberg. But your family! Your name! Your posi- 
tion ! 
Fanny. My name need not be given to the public. As 
for my family - I was an actress before I was Mrs. Val- 

dez. 
Rosenberg. Your face is everywhere familiar. Your 

beauty 

Fanny. I can easily be disguised by the make-up. 
Rosenberg. What a strange fancy, Fanny, a whim. 
Fanny. A woman's whim. Call it what you like. 
Rosenberg. It is difficult. It might be accomplished. 
But w T hat do I get in return? Remember I am a busi- 
ness man, Fanny. 
Fanny. On that night, after the play, you might have 
a little supper. It could be arranged to be rather private. 
Rosenberg, (overwhelmed with delight) I understand, 
I understand. I will arrange it. 
Fanny. Everything quite as it should be : quite respect- 
able. 
Rosenberg. Oh, quite: quite. 

Fanny, (rising and closing her fan) And now I have 
an engagement, Mr. Rosenberg. 

(A sound of the outside door closing.) 



25 



Rosenberg. And I, too, have an engagement, 

(nervously) That is perhaps Mr. Valdez? 
Fanny. He said he was coming home early. Won't 

you stay and meet him, Mr. Rosenberg? 
Rosenberg. I should be delighted, charmed, I assure 
you. But another time. I have an engagement. Give 
him my compliments, please, Mrs. Valdez. Say to him 
I admire the position he has taken in the Treasury. 
Make my excuse. Good night, Mrs. Valdez. (bows him- 
self out.) 
Fanny. Surely that was Philip's step. (Enter Philip) 

Oh, more prompt than usual. 
Philip. When am I tardy, summoned to your pres- 
ence? 



Fanny. 



Stage; stage; stage. Tell me, is there no 



reality left about you? 
Philip. You have taken it all in your keeping. What 
you see here is the empty husk and shell. 
Fanny. Rosenberg has been here. 
Philip. I met him in the hall. I thought he would 
bite me. Have you not been kind to him Fanny? 
Fanny. He has promised me all that I asked. 
Philip. Then you have been kind, even generous. For 
Rosenberg is not one to give something for nothing. 
Not even if he thinks himself in love. 
Fanny. I am to have the part in 'The Assassin'. 
Philip. Well, if you will, why you will. A woman's 

way. 
Fanny. I know that you don't want me. I know that. 
Philip. My dear, it is only that I fear for your safety. 
Fanny. My safety is nothing compared to yours. I am 
sure I shall be of some service. 
Philip. Or, if you doubt my determination? 
Fanny. Not for a moment. But, dear Philip, are you 
sure that the third act is not a mistake? 
Philip. You did not like it yesterday. I thought so. 
Fanny. From the point of view of the play it is per- 
fect. But, tonight, it is not a play you are giving. It is 

reality. 
Philip. Yes: reality for one moment. The first one in 



lift 

my life. 

Fanny. But even that moment should be dramatic. 
Philip. Oh, reality is dramatic always. 
Fanny. And it would be so climactically magnificent 
when you make that run and strike at the Dictator to 
really strike, with the revolver I mean, of course, - the 
dagger is not sure enough at such a distance, his friends 
might have time to shield him, but it would be mag- 
nificent to turn with the revolver still smoking and the 
astonished Dictator not stabbed at all and to say those 
grand words, in reality to the audience, 'So perish all 

the enemies of freedom I ' 
Philip. Fanny, you should be the actor, not poor me. 
Fanny. Oh, if I were a man! How I wish it! 
Philip. It is not so heroic when you are one. 
Fanny. You do not know the stagnant bitterness of 
being a woman. What it is to sit and smile and pray 

and wait. 
Philip. And yet a woman's life - 

Fanny. Oh, do not speak of it. 'Tis more than I'll 
endure. How think you I feel to sit here tamely and 
picture your brave deed and dash for freedom, your suf- 
fering in silence and seclusion, until the people rise 
with slow decision and call you back, their hero, their 
adored. What am I, a woman, but one more to give ap- 
plause? How will you distinguish me from all the mil- 
lions ; too cowardly to strike out in time of need : only 
brave enough to applaud when all is safety? 
Philip. You can do much before. 
Fanny. What can I do? 

Philip. Speak, write, converse, and win the people to 
me. When the man is dead, there will arise the fury of 
a tumult that will sweep hill and dale to find and hang 
me. Then, at that time, in the first days of rage, I fear, 
even you will feel the pangs of danger. When it is known 
you were my friend and, maybe, helped me. 
Fanny. Let danger come! I welcome it! I love it! 
Philip. To speak more plainly there have been other 
times when the people, robbed of their pet idol, and in 
a rage would even go so far as to hang - women. 



Fanny. You will see me swing so gallantly that even 

.flapping petticoats will take spirit and flaunt Freedom's 

flags, where men's legs wilt and wither. 

Philip. My Queen! You should have been a man. 

God has been cruel to you, Fanny. 

Fanny. But he gave me the humility to love you, my 

hero: and, oh, how that humilty burns with pride. 

Philip. Yes, yes. I know you love me Fanny. And I 

love you, and therefore 1 am cautious. No: we must 

keep our third act, our plea in the court room. In that 

1 hope to do much to mollify the public. They will feel 

that it was reason and not prejudice that prompted me. 

No: we must for once, sacrifice the dramatic: I count 

a great deal on the court scene. 

Fanny. Philip, you do not think, you do not fancy 

that your power, your wonderful influence over the 

people will tame them, then and there, and make them 

lift you on their shoulders, bear you through the streets, 

proclaiming you at once the country's savior? 

Philip. No: no: not that. Though I would wish it so. 

It is a shameful thing in me to run and hide like some 

poor common murderer from the law. 

Fanny. They say it must be, Philip. My husband and 

the others. 
Philip. I know. I know. Husbands are ever cowards. 
And the years but bring doubt and conservatism to the 
hearts of men. I would the world were all at twenty five, 
Then would I be more sure of this night's fortunes. 
Fanny. Suppose the Emperor should not come tonight! 
Philip. He must. He shall. Has he not promised? 1 
hear my fate say he will come to night. How slow they 

are, our friends. I am restless. 
Fanny. You were not wont to be impatient, Philip, in 
case my husband and his friends were late. You used to 
say, the moments spent with me were falling water. 
Philip. To day, I've other thoughts than those of love. 
Fanny. Oh, say not so. Oh, do not say it Philip. Do 
you not call to mind the day we rode along the river, 

hand oft clasping hand? 
Philip. Alas! Mv hand that day thought not of blood. 



Fanny. Blood can ennoble, purify, dear Philip. Was 

it not blood of - 

(A noise of footsteps) 
Philip. Hush! They come. 

Fanny. Oh, kiss me, the last time before the first. 

And swear 1 Swear! Philip 1 
Philip. Swear what? Have I not sworn I love you? 
Fanny. Yes: yes: not that. Swear you will do the deed. 
Philip. I swear by our own dear love. 
Fanny. Not that: not that. You love another, too. 
The name of God were better for an oath. 
Philip. By God, I swear. 

Fanny. No: no: cease, cease. I like the love oath best. 

They come. My husband. 
(Enter Senor Valdez and six gentlemen. They are 
serious and their greetings are brief and quiet. One 
Senor Monaco bears a map which he arranges open on 

the table.) 
Valdez. I trust we are not late LeGrand. You are im- 
patient. 
Philip. I have my own affairs all quite arranged. My 
only care is that the lagging hours should ride more 

speedy. 
Valdez. You must set patience once more on the 

throne. 
Philip. What? 

Senor Castro. The Emperor will not come tonight to 

'The Assassin'. 
Philip. An evil omen - evil. 
Fanny. Does he suspect? 

Castro. Nothing, nothing. 'Tis merely as he said, he 

can't endure a tragedy. 

Valdez. You will find a letter at your room with full 

apologies. He comes tomorrow night to see you act in 

comedy, 'The Spanish Quarrel'. 

Philip. We'll change the bill. He must see 'The 

Assassin'. 
Castro. It would not do. The people might suspect. 
And, then, the Emperor might take offence and take 

his leave too earl v. 



2? 

Philip. Oh, fates of hell how ye do hem me in! Like 
wild beast in your snare ye drive me on to my destruc- 
tion. 
Senor Monaco. Here is the map, the plan of your es- 
cape. 'Twere best you look it over. 
Philip. A truce with maps and plans. I've done with 
them. Henceforth my way's untrammeled. Not 

tonight! Tomorrow! Not 'The Assassin', but a farce 

instead! I will not brook it.. 
Fanny, (to the gentlemen) I pray you leave him to 
his mood untroubled. I'll order tea. We'll make our 
daily routine of dull life bring him to reason. 

(bell rings) What bell is that? 
Valdez. No fear. I gave commands. 
( A sound of disputing outside and the voice of Mary 
Avion insisting, 'I know but we are actors. We have 

come by special orders.') 
Philip. Mary! Miss Avion. Let her not come here. 
Fanny, (nettled) Why not? Some friends! our tea 

time ! Nothing more ! 
(Enter Mary attended by Harold May) 
Mary. Pardon! I interrupt! Oh, Mrs. Valdez I came 
to the rehearsal and your man said it was not here. Mr. 
Rosenberg said I should ask for you. He sent me but 
this moment from the theatre with this young man for 
escort. He said he had just come from you and Mr. Le- 
Grand had sent me word at my hotel. Ah, there he is! 
Good morning, Mr. LeGrand. I see there's some mis- 
take. Shall I withdraw? 
Fanny. Withdraw? Why, not at all. A little party of 
some friends is all. My husband, Senor Valdez, Senores 
Castro and Monaco, (to butler) Hoskins, the tea. 
Why, what, my dear, how timid of you. Some blunder 
of that Mr. Rosenberg/ He's very stupid. Your escort? 
Please present him. I saw him yesterday. You're very 

welcome. 
(Tea is served. More disputing outside.) 
Hoskins. A lady, Mrs. Valdez, at the door will not be 
turned away: there's some disturbance. 
.{All go back to door. Philip leads Mary down front.) 



m 

Philip. Child, do not stay. Make some excuse and go 
and take your escort with you. I am much annoyed. 
Mary. I did not know. I am sorry that I came. 
Philip. Oh, 'twas that Rosenberg. I do believe he's 
jealous now of me. Well, he flies high. Fools do. I'll 
touch his wing. He's wild for Mrs. Valdez. Paid a visit 
here tonight and being dismissed saw me coming in the 
door. So he dispatches you to interrupt. Cocks up some 
story. Well, go and tell him that you found us kissing, 

locked in each others arms. 
Mary. Oh, Philip, this from you to me? 
Philip. Come, sweet, be good. Do you not see I'm 
badgered to my death. Here comes another. 
(During this time Harold May has been studying the 
map lying open on the table. Enter Teresita followed by 
the others. She is in a jealous frenzy.) 
Teresita. He's here! I knew it. And that pale faced 
minx. I followed you. I saw. Oh, you're a sly one. Pre- 
tend to be so saintly and come here to squeeze his hand 
and beg him to be good. (turning on Harold May) 

And you, too, follow her. You poor blind fool - 
Philip. LaTeresita! Brava! Brava! Brava! You play 
your part so well with your mock fire these gentle 
people all start back and stare thinking you are in ear- 
nest. But I'll not be outdone. Behold Sir Philip! (takes 
role of raging. Others give audience.) Ye shrews of hell, 
ye hags that hector heaven, and spit your frothy spume 
into the upward lifting air, gather, assemble round this 
earth-born one, and learn from her new curses and new 
oaths with which to stiffen your stale driveling, and 
give your weak attempts some touch of scorn. 

Rage! Rage, 
good dame. Open your throat and belch your venomous 
flood till your white teeth are festering ambergris, cor- 
roded with the vitriol of your bile; and you become a 
hag, a snag-mouthed reptile, with every warmth of rose 
burned from your face, your cheeks cracked parchment, 
and your lips dead skin that hangs like warts on stink- 
ing leprosy. Rage! Rage! 
(Teresita stands dumbfounded and others applaud 



3.1 

softly) 

Philip, (suddenly changing) And, yet I loved you 
once: love.&till, Teresa. My breast is torn with love's 
grim ragged wounds. At night I crawl the earth and 
pray to God to let the pity of your tears like rain fall 
on, and heal me. I am your slave, your worshipper, 
my sweet; your penitent of the East that throws him- 
self face down with starving moans and prays to Allah 
in the desert's sun. 

And I have cursed you ! Even now 
I cursed. Though once 'tis over all the tide flows back 
and drowning up my hatred, with remorse leaves me a 
little child, a sobbing child, coming back humbly in 
full penitence, trembling to he forgiven. 

Teresa, oh, 
Teresa, lay on me but the mantle of thine eyes. Breathe 
me the fragrance of thy curving lips and though your 
words are hate and scorn and wrath yet will my heart 
be filled with gratitude and open like young buds with 
the May sun. 

Your beauty binds me, Sweet. I lift mine 
eyes to where your rapturous hair ivies the sacred tem- 
ples of your brow ; I catch the enchanted line of sin- 
uous screen that curtains those light walls where all 
love drinks; I see thy lips part, and I see no more; for 
all my being cringes slave-like down, and waits the 
scourge for sacrilegious look; 

Teresa, oh, Teresa, scorn not 
me. Or, if you scorn me, turn me not away. Let me 
but follow you, a dog, a slave, a worm. Strike at me, 

crush me, but deny me not. 
Teresita. (sighs and allows him to rise and kiss her 
hand.) Ah, art, more powerful than the strongest love, 
more potent even than my jealousy. Rise, Sir Philip. 
Though you have a thousand loves, yet am I well con- 
tent with what your genius gives. 

Gome, I was a fool. 
Forgive me. And you, too, child, forgive me. 
(kisses Mary) We will admire him both together now. 
Fanny. I, too, must join. So must we all indeed and 



32 '- 38 

now our little theatre is closed we will return to find 
our tea grown cold. Hoskins, hot water. 

(Curtain) 



ACT III 



Scene: the stage as before, but viewed slightly from one 
side showing a tier of boxes on the right, the lower one 
being draped with flags and blazoned with a coat of 
arms for the Emperor. The drop curtain seen partially 
sidewise but well on the right is down. The stage set- 
ting is a pavilion in a villa garden in Seville. As the cur- 
tain rises, Joe and Harold May are discovered giving 
final touches. Harold is looking at the Emperor's box. 
Attendants in rear. 



Joe. You see, after all, it is the Property Man that 
you must most respect. What would they all do with- 
out me ? Why they would be as helpless as babes. Even 
the Emperor himself would be but one of the mob if I 
left him down there in the pit. But I build him a box 
and drape it with the Imperial flags and colors. I place 
a big chair in it like. a throne and hang the royal en- 
sign up for a canopy. Then when he comes in and sits 
down, even though he does it a little goutily, the mob 
goes quite wild with cheering. They little know it is the 



u 

Property Man, not the Emperor, that has set them in 

such a frenzy of enthusiasm. 
Harold. Will the Emperor have his body guard 

around him ? 
Joe. The Chief will sit with him in the box; no more. 
I place his chair for him, too. Another man made great 
by the Property Man. There are others of the body 
guard distributed throughout the audience, but who are 
they if I give them no chairs different from the others? 
A guard is also placed yonder in the flies, but he's a 
nobody: I give him a camp stool. 
Harold. What do you think of Philip LeGrand ? 
Joe. What do I think of him ? Well, that's a puzzler. 
You see, he is never twice the same iudividual. That's 
because I give him so many kinds of chairs to sit in. If 
I give him a Louis Fourteenth, he is courtly: a Gypsy's 
log, he is passionate; a deck chair on a steamer, he is 
debonair; a Roman stool, he is noble. On the whole, 
he becomes my setting very well. 
Harold. I mean what do you think of his intellect. Is 

it healthy ? Is the man sane ? 
Joe. Lord bless you, boy, all actors are crazy. Have 
you been here three days only to discover that ? 
Harold. He speaks fair; he is courteous and kindly. 
Joe. When that's his role it's up to him to play it. 
You would not expect him to be a boor would you when 
I have set for him the chair of a gentleman ? 
Harold. He's back there now, in his dressing-room. 
He seems to be in a great rage about something. 
Joe. Listen! I'll tell you what's the matter with Sir 
Philip. He doesn't like the furniture I've set for him. 
He's mad because I have brought out this setting and 
said, 'Tonight, you shall be a Spanish hidalgo.' Last 
night, this chair would have pleased him well enough, 
but I had placed a Greek bench for him instead. To- 
night, he wants the Greek bench... is crazy for it... But 
'No,' says the Property Man, 'a Spanish hidalgo.' I 
have wheeled out this old carved mahogany, and what 
must his nibs do but sit in it ? Crazy ? They're all era- 
ay as bed-bugs. But I know how to handle them. I'm 



8& 

used to it. 

(Enter Rosenberg, an orchid in his button-hole.) 
Rosenberg. Joe. 

Joe. Yes, sir. (aside) I wish managers were crazy. 
Rosenberg. I have an order for rose-lights in the Em- 
peror's box. Put them in. Take out the white ones. 

(exit.) 
Joe. You see? I even give emperors youth, and a 
complexion, (goes out.) 

(Enter Mary, in Spanish court costume. She is looking 

for Harold.) 
Harold. Mary! 
Mary. What news ? 

Harold. To-night the Emperor comes. He has order- 
ed rose-lights in his box. 
Mary. Alas, I fear he's ill, and will not let the people 

see him pale. 
Harold. If anything should happen they might say 
that he was pale from fear : misunderstanding. Have 
you seen Mr. LeGrand tonight ? 
Mary. I have seen him. He is sore distraught. His 
disappointment over last night's play is something I 
have never seen in him before. Oh, I have my fears. 
I have my fears for him. Oh Harold, help me save him. 

(breaks down sobbing.) 
Harold. It is the Emperor I would save, not him. 
Mary. Him, too. We must save Philip, too, You do 
not know him Harold. He is so good, so gentle and so 
strong! And his great genius, Harold! 
Harold. In my eyes he's a common murderer, no 
more. A murderer, though he has not done the deed. 
Mary. You do not know. What do you know ? Why, 
nothing. We have suspicions but we have no proofs. 
Harold. Mary. 

Mary. Oh, Harold, not so harsh. Be not so sudden to 

condemn untried. 
Harold. You know he has planned this deed. You 

know it Mary. 
Mary. Harold, I only fear. I have no word of proof. 
Harold. You would shield him because you Jove him.* 



m 

That love is sinful, Mary. 

Mary. If he is guilty he is not himself. He's led by 
that bad woman. She's ambitious. Oh, I know it. But 
he is not ambitious. Not ambitious, Harold. Oh, he is 
noble. I have seen him stop, lay all his work aside to 
help some sufferer. I've seen it many times. 
Harold. To feed his vanity. I know. I know. 
Mary. Not so, his heart is kind. I know it, Harold. 
And gentle, too, as gentle as a child's. In gentleness, - 
yes, I'll say it though it angers you, - in gentleness and 
-charity of heart, Philip LeGrand has much to teach 

you, Harold, I dare to say it. 
Harold. 1 know, you love him. You've no need to 
tell me that. But I love you and I will save you, Mary. 
Mary. Be patient but be watchful, too. Here's some 
one coming. (they retire right.) 

(Enter Fanny in Spanish court costume. She is accom- 
panied by a member of the Emperor's body guard.) 
Fanny, (indicating Harold) There, that's the fellow. 
If you would guard the Emperor's life tonight watch 

well his actions. 
Guard. His name. 

Fanny. Harold May, nephew, 'tis said, of the thea- 
tre's property man. He may be that, but, much more to 
the point, he has the friendship of Miss Avion there. 
Guard. She's loyal. Her father was the Emperor's 

favorite general. 
Fanny. The easier he should make a tool of her. 
Guard. I'll arrest him instantly. 

Fanny. Nay, not so sudden. Where is your evidence? 
'Tisonly my suspicion. But send him from the stage to- 
night. Make some excuse. Here comes the manager. 
(Enter Rosen berg .) 

Rosenberg. Ah, Mrs. Valdez! I was looking for you. 
A charming costume, charming. But, you will be recog- 
nized. 
Fanny. I'll go in for my make-up. (exit.) 
Rosenberg, (to guard) You'll find a seat within. 

(is about to go.) 
Guard. A word with you. 



Rosenberg. Well? I'm in a hurry. 

Guard. You have a man in your employ, one Harold 

May. 
Rosenberg. Well. 

Guard. He must not be upon the stage tonight. 
Rosenberg . What ! He ' s loyal . 
Guard. I have my reasons. 

RosENBERg. But I need him. He helps his uncle with 

the heavy work. 
Guard. Another man will take his place tonight. 
Rosenberg. Come, I'll not endure this interference. 
Guard. I have authority. 
Rosenberg. Pish! 
(Reenter Harold.) 
Guard. You are Harold May. 
Harold. Yes, sir. 

Guard. You are excused from duty here this evening. 
We need your absence on the stage tonight. 
Rosenberg. But, I say - 

Guard. You have my orders, (to Harold) I'll escort 

.you to the door. 
Harold. I don't understand you. . 
Guard. That is not needed. Come. (He leads Harold 

out.) 
Rosenberg. The insolence of these fellows. We'll see 
who is the manager. (As he is about to go out he en- 
counters Fanny with her fan open.) 
Fanny. Oh, Charles, a moment. 

Rosenberg. Excuse me, Mrs. Fanny, but I am - I 

want to see the guard. 
Fanny. Oh, yes, about Harold May. It was my sug- 
gestion. 
Rosenberg . Yours ! 

Fanny. There are suspicions at headquarters about 
the fellow. Let him go tonight. He can come back to- 
morrow. 
Rosenberg. But it interferes. 'Tis necessary. 
Fanny. Do this for me. What ? Will you not grant 
one little thing that I ask ? Tonight ? 
Rosenberg. T suppose I can get Martin to stay. 



88 



Fanny. Do so, please; for me. And ask Mr. LeGrand 
to come here a moment. I want to see him. 
Rosenberg. He's dressing. And savage as a bear to- 
night. If he's disturbed, then everything is lost. I've 
never seen him as he is tonight. He's usually all business. 
Fanny. Send him to me. 

Rosenberg. The people are assembling. Five minutes 
and the curtain bell will ring. The Emperor and his 

cavalcade have started. 
Fanny. Send Mr. LeGrand here. 
Rosenberg. If you stir him up, all's lost. He'll fail. 
Fanny. He will not fail. I'll soothe him. Send him 

here, Charles. 
Rosenberg. Perhaps you are right. I'll have him call- 
ed, (exit.) 
(The orchestra starts up and continues to play through- 
out the two following conversations. Philip enters. He 
is dressed in Spanish court costume and is as black as a 

thunder-cloud.) 

Philip. Here is your dog. You whistled, did you not ? 

Fanny. Success! Success, if you can keep that face. 

Magnificent ! And the costume ! 

Philip. Oh, flattery! 

Fanny. Oh Philip! How your genius is afire. You'll 
burn the house tonight! A conflagration! 
Philip. I wish I could burn the the house in truth. 
Fanny. You can. You will. The Emperor will be pros- 
trate. Oh, the Emperor! You are the Emperor! 
Philip. You would make me his clown: his buffoon. 
Fanny. He will be your's ere the first curtain falls. 

How you will spurn him. 
Philip. Cajole your fool. Go on. 

Fanny. First let me fix your ruff. The lace is dis- 
arranged. 
Philip. Leave it. I'm in no humor for such finery. 
Fanny. Bravo, my prince! Incomparable Don Alonzo! 
Philip. Have done. Have done. 

Fanny, (touching his doublet) There's something 

here I miss. Your pistols, Philip. 

Philip. I left them at ray house. They're for another 



m 



part. I wear them only in 'The Assassin'. 
Fanny. What! Don Alonzo, and no pistols! Come! 
You are no cavalier. What, faint heart ? 
Philip. I tell you I'm not playing that tonight. My 

horse is in his stable. 
Fanny. We'll send vour servant for him. Ring the 

bell. 
Philip. You treat me like a child. I am not your bell- 
boy. 
Fanny. No; you are a gentleman and I have asked a 

favor. 
Philip. It is ? 

Fanny. To call your man and bid him have your 
horse in readiness at the corner. 
Philip. I have no need for him. 

Fanny. 'Tis I who have the need. Or, stay a mo- 
ment. Your horse might compromise you, I being 
caught in flight. Tell him to hire a public horse; man's 

saddle. 
Philip. Fanny, you're mad. 

Fanny. Yes, I am mad if mad means being deter- 
mined, (pointing to Emperor's box) He dies tonight. 

The cause has still one friend. 
Philip. I did not bring my pistols, there's no time. 
Fanny. I guessed as much and so brought mine for 

fear, (shows pistol.) ' 
Philip. Give it to me. 
Fanny. No; never. 
Philip. Shall I take it from you ? 
Fanny. Are you Philip LeGrand ? 
(Philip crosses stage and rings a bell. Enter call boy. ) 
Philip. My servant. 
Boy. Yes sir. 

(Enter Ephriam, a colored servant.) 
Ephriam. Master. 

Philip. Go to my house; tell Murdoch instantly to 
have my horse in waiting at the alley as I arranged for 
him to do on yesterday. No dallying. 
Ephriam. Yes sir. (exit.) 
Philip. Now give me the pistol. 



40 



Fanny. You will use it ? 
Philip. Do you doubt me ? 

Fanny. I never did. (crying) Can you not kiss me, 

Philip? 
(In taking the pistol he kisses her hand.) 
Philip. There's danger here. You saw it loaded ? 
Fanny. My own hands saw it. 

Philip. Fanny, you'd make a worm turn to a man. 
Go, now and leave me. (He steps up to the drop cur- 
tain and peeps out, looking toward the Emperor's box. 
Fanny goes out. He examines the pistol.) 
Philip. A good medicine. Her father's pistol. 
(Enter Mary looking for Philip. She sees the pistol 
which he conceals in his dress.) 
Philip. You, child ? 
Mary. Did you hope to see some other ? 
Philip. Who is so fair as you ? 

Mary. Call me not fair, dear Philip. I would I were 
not so. I would I were the ugliest woman born, had I 

that quality I lack and need. 
Philip. You have all qualities, my sweet. 
Mary. No; no; I lack the greatest. 
Philip. What is that ? 

Mary. Dear Philip, power to make you see the right. 

And, seeing, do it. 
What is right, child ? 



Philip. 

Mary. 

Philip. 

Mary. 

Philip. 

Mary. 

Philip, 
Mary. 

wound 

Philip. 
Mary. 



To love one's neighbor. 
It 



is because I love my neighbor so, I dare 
to undertake the thing I do. 
What thing ? What thing ? 
Nay, child, you know but peace. 
My father was a warrior. As a child I knew 
the stir of drums, the screaming fife. 
But blood. You knew not blood. 
Blood, too, I knew; and many a yawning 
I've held together till the sister came to bind it 

with firm linen. 
A hospital is different from the field. 
But Philip, Philip, I know of battles, too. The 
rules of war. I've conned them over from a little girl, 



.41 

hearing my father. And Philip, Philip, oh, forgive the 
word. I will not say it, but you know it, Philip. Oh, 

strike me now. 
Philip. What word. I strike you ? Wherefore ? I strike 

you ? What word, dear Mary ? 
Mary. The word they call a man who shoots from 
ambush. Now strike me. Strike me. 
Philip. You mean a coward ? 

Mary. (crouching) Now spurn me. Kick me. Crush 

me with your feet. 
Philip. A coward! And from you! You mean it, too. 
You feel I am a coward for you wait my blow. You 
think I'll kick 3^011! You! And who am I ? Philip Le- 

Grand ? 
Mary. Your words are worse than blows. Forgive me, 

Philip. 
Philip. Little Mary! Sweetheart; child; my love: lis- 
ten sweet Mary. 
Mary. Kill me. Do not speak. 

Philip. My father was an actor, like myself. Not a 
great soldier, he, with code of honor. Yet, he was a 
good man, gentle, generous, true; and never once, I 
think, did one base deed to stain his name or mine. He 
often said to me, 'Philip, I have no name to give you 
but a clown's, a jester's, one w T hose highest aim in life 
has been to make men briefly smile, forgetting life's 
dull woe. It is not any name. I know that well. Throw 
it aside and take a worthier. Forget it, Philip, but re- 
member this: your father was a man who loved the 
right and did no more of wrong than sinning man must 
do in earthly blindness. Do you the same.' 
Mary. He speaks! Your father speaks! Oh, hear him, 

Philip! 
Philip. Perhaps he does. Well, there, (he takes the 
pistol from his dress and sends it whirling across the 
floor) there is my answer. 

(Enter Fanny.) 
Philip, (to her) We were rehearsing the scene in the 

first act. 
Fanny. But the act is not complete without me on 



42 

the stage. 

Philip. No: I need you both. I stand between you. 
fanny. Your sweetheart and betrothed, which will win? 
philip. Neither. I conquer both. It is my part, being 

the man. 
(Sound of trumpets in the orchestra.) 
philip. The play begins. 
mary. The Emperor! 
fanny. The Emperor! 

(Enter the Emperor and his attendants in the box 
right. Flourish of masic, applause etc. Philip, Fanny, 
and Mary stand waiting. As the applause subsides en- 
ter Ephriam. He goes up to Philip and hands him two 

pistols.) 
ephriam. Here, Massah LeGrand. I come from Mr. 
Murdock. He says you'll need these pistols in the play, 
and that the horse, stands ready. 
philip. Good! He is thoughtful, Murdock. 
(He takes the pistols and binds them on over his doub- 
let. The curtain bell rings. Philip, Fanny, Mary, and 
Ephriam retire. The music strikes up again, the curtain 
rises on the play, applause. En L er two clowns, the first 
is roaring with laughter, the second is trying to find 

out what it is about.) 
1st clown. Alonzo! Don Alcnzo! Ho! ho! ho! ho! 
ho! ho! Oui! I'll die! Til die! 
2nd clown. You say Don Alonzo? What has he done? 
■■...- Come, tell me. 

1st clown. What has he done? Oh, the side-splitt : ng- 
est, the laughingest, the uproaringest ! Hoo - i - i! I'll 

die! I'll die! 
2nd clown. Good fellow, tell me. 
1st clown. Ho ! ho ! ho ! ho ! ho ! - u - i ! - u - i ! 
- u - ahl - u - ah! - u - a h! (stops laughing as 

if he had strained himself.) 
2nd clown, (guess'ng) He's brought the barber's wife, 
she who's so lean and bony and stood her up before the 
mirror in the hall, the one that makes you fat, and told 
her that she now has grown that way through his great 

medicines? 



43 

1st clown. No: no: How could he now? Although 
she saw, she could not be convinced. She'd feel her 
bones still pricking through the skin. 
2nd clown. He has brought the old cattle drover back 
and told him he was married to a black peddler wench 

while he was in liquor. 
1st clown. He did that already yesterday. How could 

he do it again today? 
2nd clown. Tell me, now, what he's done. 
1st clown, (again laughing) Ho! ho! ho! ho! ho! 
2nd clown. Why don't you tell me? 
1st clown. Guess, guess, guess. Guess again. 
2nd clown. Another wench, perhaps? 
1st clown. Now you've hit the nail. For each wench 
is a nail in a man's coffin. Yes, a wench, a full fair 
wench, fresh from the country side, a peasant wench, 

full fair. 
2nd clown. What is the game? the play? 
1st clown. Full fair: full fair! He tells her she's a 
princess hid away from out her father's royal court at 

infancy, 
2nd clown. Whose infancy? 

1st clown. Her's, you fool. And Don Alonzo is her 
cousin, so he says, and his part is to restore her to her 
throne and wed her to Don Carlos. 
2nd clown. Why not himself? 

1st clown. Oh there's Dona Inez. She's jealous as a - 

as a, as a - a - a crocodile. 
2nd clown. Are they jealous? 

1st clown. Cro3odiie'5? M-m-m-m- something ter- 
rible. I've known them to eat up, eat up, eat up a - a 
hemisphere out of pure jealousy. 
2nd clown. Oh - h - h. 
1st clown. Yes, as I live, and lie. 
2nd clown. And she's to wed Don Carlos? 
1st clown. Yes and he's a prince. No less, they tell 
her, than the prince of Arragcn. And every one is mak- 
ing up in play. I'm the court jester. Whoop! ! ! 
2nd CLown. What can I be? 
1st clown. Remain yourself. She'll never take you for 



44. 

a man. Whoop! ! ! 
2nd clown. They're coming now! 
1st clown. It is the wedding train! Hoop! Hoop! 

Hoorav! 
(Enter musicians and attendants in livery, then ladies 
and gentlemen in Spanish court costume, Fanny is 

Dona In z the betrothed of Philip who is Don Alonzo. 
Teresita is the Duchess dowager, his noble mother. All 
take places each side of the chairs arranged by the pag- 
es for the throne. Then enters Don Carlos, a fat florid 
glutton, with Mary on his arm in bridal robes of a 
princess, A mock marriage has already taken place; 
they are now to crown the Queen, All shout 'Hail, to 
the Queen? The King and Queen of Arragon!' 
Don Carlos and Mary are seated and Mary is crowned. 
She moves as in a dream. All crowd around to pay her 

honor.) 
Teresita. I trust my royal daughter slept the night, 
for there are many wakeful ones ahead. 
Fanny. Let Dona Inez give her mistress greetings. 
Philip. Alonzo following them. 
Mary, (as if awaking.) Alonzo? 

(Fanny draws Philip away. Others pay duty to 

the Queen.) 
Fanny. How dazed she looks! You'd think she'd 
swell with pride, and flaunt her feathers like a bain- 
yard fowl that suddenly had come to peacock's plumes. 
Philip. You'd think so, yes. 

Fanny. I believe you are repenting. Poor Alonzo! 
Philip. Nonsense, sweet Inez! 'Tis the excellence of 
the sport has sobered me. It makes me speculate on hu- 
man nature, - what things would be if things were oth- 
erwise, and, all a sudden, rank should be reversed, 
the great be lowly, and the lowly, great; the rich- 
poor; and the pitied penniless, rolling in gold ' 
Fanny. 'Twould not be possible! 
Philip. But being possible, 'twould not be different; 
the high would cringe and fawn, the rich beg lustily'. 
The priest would seize a maid with soldier's zeal; and 
that same soldier, clad in priestly robes, prattle his 



45 

prayer. 

Fanny. Look at Don Carlos. He seems more affected 

than does the wench herself. 
Philip. Yes, it is he whe seems the real plehian trick- 
ed in the stranger finery of a king. She's quite the prin- 
cess, vested with her right, but now cast down by grief 

and melancholy. 
Fanny. Nonsense, Alonzo, she's a simple peasant girl. 

Can you not see it? 
Philip. When, royal Inez, once I fook at you, I feel 
the difference whereof you speak. Your eyes are other 
and your brow is noble. Your walk is queenly as your 

silent bearing. 
Fanny. Pshaw! Pshaw! 

Don Carlos, (advancing) Now, all my subjects, let the 
dance go on. Then to the feasting. Alonzo first is honor- 
ed by our Queen. I lead the royal mother. 
Philip, (advancing to Mary and bowing low) This 
favor quite o'erwhelms my wildest dreams. 
(A dance of eight is formed. Teresita and Don Carlos 

lead.) 
Mary. Why do you mock me ? 

Philip. Madam, upon my honor as a knight (hesitate-) 
Mary. What pledge you on your hon)r as a kirght? 
Philip. I pledge myself forever your protector, your 

follower, lover, subject. 
Mary. Will you protect me then, from that foul man? 
Philip. I swear to do it. 
Mary. Why did you bring me here? 
(Teresita, who has been conducting the dame, pauses 
with Don Carlos, and Mary, to the surprise of all, steps 
forward leading Philip, dancing with understanding of 

the forms but without spirit.) 
Fanny, (to her partner) This is no peasant girl. It is 
a trick on us. Alonzo turns his wit against his friends. 
(Mary and Philip return. Fanny and her partner 

dance.) 
Mary. Why did you bring me here? 
Philip. Who are you? Tell me that. 
Mary. You have told me, my lord. What should I 



46 

tell? 

Philip. I thought you were a peasant girl: no more. 

You are not that. 
Mary. You thought - - 

Philip. It was a trick, a jest. We called it sport. For- 
give me. 
Mary. You brought me to that man in jest? 
Philip. Not that. Not that. I meant to rescue you 
from him and take you far away. 
Mary. Whither? To my own home? 
Philip. I did not know where you would wish to go. 
Mary. But thought 'twould be to you, my lord, per- 
haps. 
Philip. I thought you were a peasant girl. Forgive me. 
Mary. And, being a peasant girl you had the right to 
throw away my innocence ? My life, my honor, arid, the 
honor of my people were nothing if I had not. rank or 

v\ealth? 
Philip. Not that. Not that. 

(They dance again. Mary with spirit and pride. All 
marvel at her. She and Philip return and Teresita leads 

again . 
Philip. Who are you? 

Mary. 'Tis true I am no peasant. Though my birth is 
wrapped in mystery, yet have I had some teaching 
from a lady reduced to poverty but saying always the 
day would come when I should need to know these 
things. I always, thought 'twould be a day of joy, not 

one like this. 
Philip. Forgive me. 

Mary. When you came to me, I thought it was no 
more than was my right. I trusted you alone. That was 

my only folly. 
Philip. Not that. Not that. 
M vry. My true name is Maria de la Rey. 
(They dance again. Then partners are exchanged. Ter- 
esita is with Philip. 
Teresita. You're sad, my son. The sport is strange. 

What say you? 
Philip. I, sad? Strange sport? 



Teresita. She dances not like any peasant maid. 
Philip. Some lady taught her. Other ways she is a 
fool, quite dumb. Wait till you hear her speak. 
(Mary returns in her dance to Philip, as partners are 
taken again. He is much distressed.) 
Philip. Your father was my father's deadliest enemy. 
Breathe not your name to any living soul. My moth- 
er thinks your family is dead. Leave all to me. Speak 
not at all, or in the peasant's way. Leave all to me. 
(Again partners are changed and Fanny comes forward 

to dance with Philip.) 
Fanny. You take the sport full seriously, Alonzo. 

You're quite the noble knight. 
Philip, (affecting to laugh) Her speech is wonderful. 
'What a good place this is for cows,' she said, mean- 
ing the park. 'We have a cow at home that gives twelve 
quarts of milk five times a day. I'll bring that cow and 
keep her in the hall. 'Tis a warm place to stable.' 
Fanny, (aside to Philip) The dance once ended I'll go 
to the box, engage the Chief Police, make him with- 
draw. Then do you shoot. Shoot! Shoot! And shoot to 

kill! 
(Philip is thrown quite out of his role by this and as 
it is his cue he stammers, and looks helpless. The other 
actors seeing his distress try to help over the difficulty. 
Teresita starts a dance as if to teach Mary an old Span- 
ish step. Fanny goes out. Mary ever watchful omes for- 
ward with her lines which should be given later on in 

the scene.) 
Mary. I would that I might plead with you my lord 
for gentle living and for peaceful means. 
(Philip turns to her in surprise quite out of his role. 
Fanny enters the Emperor's box and speaks with the 
Chief of Police taking him out with her.) 
Mary, (continuing.) I see your face is curled and 
creased with shame; but in it I see, too, the good shine 
out, like light of day behind the mask of night. I plead 
not for myself. Do as you will with me. It may be in 
my fate you'll learn some little tenderness, which any 
wanton feels sometimes, I think, when fresh, young 



-48 

flowers are thrown down in the mire and trodden un- 
derfoot by careless ones. 'Tis for yourself I plead, not 
me. You have the spirit of a noble man, but now gone 
wide astray, and wandering in the ways of lust and 
vanity. Take heed that all your gaiety turn not to bit- 
terness and suicide , and what has bid in you a fair 
young growth, come out excre'sence, like that monster 

there. 
(Mary has caught Philip's hand in her earnestness, 
when Fanny appears in the box a moment, signals him 
and then retires. Philip finally breaks away from Ma- 
ry, rushes toward the Emperor, and speaks to him di- 
rect. All the actors are astounded. Mary follows Phil- 
ip, but is powerless to stop him.) 
Philip. Tyrant, step forth and fight. Draw your 

sword. (To Mary, who catches his wrist.) Fear not, 
I will not shoot. (Draws his rapier.) This is my weap- 
on. Here's no cowardice! (to the Emperor,) Draw, 
you, or prove yourself the coward, now. Draw! Drawl 
(He is in a frenzy. The Emperor, pale, startled, rises, 
steps out as if to come on the stage. Harold rushes up 
from the pit and flings himself in front of the Emperor) 
Harold. Your subject, Sire. Give me the leave to 
fight. Your wars are o'er. Give me your sword, 

my King. 
(The Emperor steps out on the stage, shaking Harold 
off. His blood is up. He draws his sword, and advan- 
ces, on guard, to meet Philip. They fight. The Em- 
peror is hit; but Harold, again rushing in, receives the 
force of the blow on his hand. Philip gives another 

thrust, then, with a flourish, cries: 'So perish all the 
enemies of Freedom ! ' and leaps off the stage. He falls 

but rises, and runs on.) 
Harold, (rising, his hand hurt.) He has killed the 

Emperor ! 
P^mperor, (supported by friends.) Not so, my chil- 
dren. I still live. It is a scratch. I pray you be at 

peace. 
(Music starts up, and the Emperor and his party retire 
in order across the stage. curtain.) 



49 



ACT IV 



Scene: A secluded grove on a ranche, the home of 
Mary Avion. A shepherd's hut is in the centre, back. 
It is night. The moon comes out of the clouds after 
the curtain rises. Mary comes in carrying a basket of 
provision. She goes up to the door of the hut. 



Mary. Philip! Philip! 

Philip, (comes out. He is pale and haggard. His head 
is bandaged.) The day has been a long and sad one, 
Mary, but now that you are come, come with the rising 
moon, I feel the gentleness of sweet content. 
Mary. I bring you food. My people do not know; 

and none suspect me. 
Philip. I think you are my moon, Queen of calm 
thoughts and peace. My sun has set, A burning day 
it was, but now the moon is shining healingly. I feel 
its beams play softly on my grave. 
Mary. Speak not of graves. They hold weak women's 
hearts whose bodies still are wandering, (weeps.) 
Philip, Sweet moon, come out from midst the blot- 
ting clouds; they blur my vision. 
Mary. You are suffering. Let me dress your wound. 
Philip. No: no: not that! Sit here, and let me 

see you. 
Marj t . You must eat. 

Philip. My eyes are ravenous. And although my lips 
express the hunger of a fortnight's fast, 'tis not the 



50 

food you proffer makes them yearn. Tis what you do 

withhold. 
Mary, (kisses him.) Let lips be satisfied. 
Philip. Mary! Can you kiss me? 
Mary. Hush! Hush! Not that! Lets talk of merrier 

things; of days long past. 
Philip. Or days to come. 

Mary. No: no: the past. There are no days to come. 
The past is all, for you and me henceforth, Do you re- 
member the first time we met, when I was but a timid 
trembling country girl come up to town to try my for- 
tune on? 
Philip, (fondly.) What are you now? 
Mary. Not timid more. How brave you looked to me 
when you came out, your dark eyes flashing fire, your 

raven locks - 
Philip. Come, come, no stage-talk now ! (he faints, 
then recovers.) There! Kiss me, Mary! 
Mary. Nov; you must eat and drink. Oh, do you not 
repent? Do you not fear to die, and face your maker? 
Philip. Did he not make me thus? Well, come, no 
tears! Give me the wine, and though I know no thirst 
'twill come as nectar poured from your dear hands. 
Mary, Here! And here! Let me arrange a table for 
you, so. Although I tremble for you every hour, still 
do I feel the happiest content that I may wait on you. 
Philip. Have 3 T ou heard aught of news? The Emperor? 
Mary. He was not harmed. Your sword struck Harold 
May, an 1 gave him a slight flesh- w und in the hand. 
Philip. I'd be-t remained a clown, It is my part. 

Reality is not a life for me. 
Mary. Your love is real. 

Philip. But badly played; distorted, warped, perverse. 

Are the sleuths on my track? 
Mary. They follow up the track that was mapped out 
and seen by Harold May that day before upon the table 

in the Valdez house. 
Philip. And Valdez? Fanny? 

Mary. All have escaped; fled to the country-side; so 

great was the confusion. 



51 



PniLir. Poor Fanny! 
Mary. Poor Philip! 
Philip. And poor Mary, too. 

Mary. No: name me not with her. Even to he pitied 
even to be loved with her, were shame and infamy. 
Philip. Did you not hear some noise just now? some 
stealthy foot-fall in the underbrush? 
Mary. Your weakness makes you fearsome. Eat, dear 

Philip. 
Philip. Hush! (rises, and seizes pistol.) Who goes 

there? 
(Enter Fanny. She is worn, and half crazed from wan- 
dering in the woods.) 
Fanny. I thought as much! Safe in the school-girl's 

arms ! 
Philip. You, Fanny! 
Fanny. Fanny. Who else? 
Philip. How come you here ? 
Fanny. 'How come you here?' 
welcome after these fourteen days 



And not a word of 
of flight and loneli- 
ness! 



Mary. I'll go, and leave you. 
Fanny. No: You will stay. 



I do not trust a traitor 

out of sight. 

Philip. Child, you may go. Comeback again tomorrow. 

Mary. I'll go but out of hearing. I will watch outside 

for any danger. 
Fanny. Stay if you wish to see a woman loved. Stay if 
you wish to know of human passion : its depth, abandon, 
recklessness, and sin. 'Twill teach you something for 
your mimicry: and vastly different from the puny driv- 
el you think is love and weakly answer to. You are not 
meant to love. Your life is shallow. What passion can 
attach to your thin arms, flat breast, insipid lips! 
Now here are kisses men are wild to seize ! Here breasts 
and arms that drive the saints to frenzy, as they will 
Philip, now. (Mary goes.) What! Will not stay? 
Gone ? Run away ? Afraid ? Poor whimperer ! 
Philip. Fanny, have done. Your jealous frenzies now 
have little meaning to a man like me. When, for a 



m 

fortnight, one has fled from death, has listened, shud- 
dered, anl kept watch each moment, until, grown wea- 
ry, he has turned and smiled, and said, 'Come, Wel- 
come,' to the wolf that haunt3 him, - at that time, 
there is little left for love save of the kind that is im- 
mortal, Fanny. One thinks not longer of the love of 
flesh, but only of that love of innocence, that lasts 
through death, endures through fire and torment, cares 
only to love on, to aid and comfort, seeks not return, 

enjoyment, satisfaction... Such love is all for me. 
Fanny. All hail, Saint Philip! 

Philip. Saint if you like. I think if I had always 
known such love, I had been sinner less. 
Fanny. And not a murderer ? 

Philip. Murderer I am not now. I bungled that. But, 
being a murderer. I but thought it duty, and neither 

you nor any woman ruled. 
Fanny. I set you on... Had it not been for me - 
Philip. Had it not been for you - what then ? The 
time, the place, the manner had been other, the deed 

been deadlier done. 
Fanny. You cheat me out of that ? 
Philip. Fanny, if you come to stand before a jury and 
your life on trial, you'll be full glad for what I tell you 

now. 
Fanny. Let them try me. 

Philip. You say so now. But wait the sea of the con- 
demning faces. Wait for the stillness and the forms of 
court; the twelve dull men, who in half wakeful sleep, 
let slip your quiverng life from listless hands. Wait 
till the gallows with its swinging vision looks in unon 
your ghostly prison cell ; then will you thank me that 
I set you free from this, my action. 
Fanny. Oh, Philip, cease! (She cowers down shud- 
dering. ) 
(Enter Mary.) 
Mary. Hide! Hide! Go in! Some men on horses 

scour the neighboring wood. Go in, dear Philip. 
Philip. I will not hide. 
Mary. Go! Hide! For my sake! Go, go, Philip! 



53 

Philip. Goodbye, now, Mary! Now, goodbye forever! 
Mary. They shall not find >ou! I will stay and speak. 
Oh, I'll be subtle! They will never find yon, 
Fanny, (screaming.) Yes, yes, they shall. The trai- 
tor's here. He's here! Here is the would-be murderer 
that you seek, locked in his mistress' arms. 'Twas she 
who drove him to it! (She falls in a fa hit.) 
Philip, (to Mary,) For your sake, Sweet, I hide. 
But this one shares my guilt. (With a' violent effort he 

drags Fanny inside the hut.) 
(Enter Harold May.) 
Harold. Mary! Miss Avion! 
Mary. Yes, Harold May. 
Harold. What do you here ? 

Mary. This is my native heath; my childhood's home. 
'Twere better that I ask, 'What do you here ?' 
Harold. I seek that traitor. Who was it that called ? 
Mary. It was the traitor called. You thought 'twas I? 
Harold. You can't deceive me, Mary. Oh, I know 
the meaning of that fire in your blue eyes. You have 

concealed him, Mary. 
Mary. And if I have, 'tis from your cruelty. You, 
who would track a broken stag to death, and turn your 

blood-hounds on him. 
Harold. A mad dog must be shot. He will lute others. 
Mary. A dog may turn and bite hi=? master, even, 

and have no touch of rabies. 
Harold. We will not argue, you and I will net: two 

born to help each other. 
Mary. You have helped me. You have. I thank you 
for it. With all my life to come I'll thank you Harold. 
Harold. But now, you'll help not me. 
Mary. How do I help you, yielding him to you ? He 
dies in torment from his tortured soul. Why shoula 

you fret him ? 
Harold. He is dying, then ? 

Mary. He scarce can live the night out. He is wound- 
ed. Struck in the head by some stone from the mob. 
His face is crushed and broken. Oh, if you saw him, 
Harold - his white, hunted face - two weeks he's wan- 



54 

dered in the wild 3rn ess, the hated quarry of enraged 
mankind. If you but saw his eyes, his broken mouth, 
you'd pity him; yes, even Harold May. 
Harold. You love him still. 

Mvuy. I love him, yes. I love all suffering men. As 
Christ loved Judas hanging from the tree, and died to 

save him. 

Harold. Judas was not saved. 

Mary. He was not ? Not if you had been the judge. 
Not if the mob doled out compassion's tears. But there's 

a higher. 

Harold. Mary, I love you. 

Mary. Oh, Harold, break not down my last defense. 

I am a woman. 
Huiold. I love you. Be my wife when he is gone. 
I'll love his widow; cherish what he leaves. 
Mary. Harold! Harold! 

(Enter Philip. He is calm, in full control.) 
Philip. She is not mine. Nor ever could have been. 
A saint was never yoked to one so vile. She was my 
better angel, that was all, who broke her wings against 
the dragon's webs, and now lies bleeding. 
Mary. Philip! 
Harold, (to Philip, pointing to Mary who is weeping) 

Behold your work ! 
Phiiip Would that it were my work, would that it were. 
Then should I rise straight up to Paradise for one sweet 
deed against a life of failures. But not so. I have my 
work in life to answer for, but this is not my doing. 
You sir, you do not know the treasure you possess; 
you have no sense of value. Think you this angel grov- 
elling for my sin 3 is mortal in her wounds and will not 
rise ! Oh, you mistake her! When you and I are given 
to the winds, the good she does will flourish like a tree 
that blesses Eden's valley. But I rave. Forgive me. I 
am an actor, even with my dying breath, I know no 
better. (He sinks back, gasping.; 
Harold. I have sought your death. 
Prild? You have no need to seek. It comes to you. 
(A shudder passes through him.) 



55 

Mary. Oh, Harold, hold him up! I'll give him wine. 
Philip. There is no need. Join hands, you two: join 

hands. 

(They look at each other dazedly, then at Philip. He 

takes their hands, and they, seeing what he will do, 

clasp them as if in the marriage ceremony.) 

Philip. The play is ended, and the actor dies. Watch 

him. A rare lesson. 
(He dies. The two sit before him with clasped hands. 
A noise of men, hounds, and horses.) 
Mary. The soldiers! Quick! Carry his body in ! 
(Harold picks up the body of Philip and carries it into 
the hut. Enter soldiers in haste.) 
Captain. She said it was this hut. He's hiding there. 

Set it on fire. 
(Soldiers fire the straw hut. It bursts into flames. 

Harold supports Mary who is half fainting. Enter Fan- 
ny, craze 1. She runs wildly about the stage.) 
Fanny. They snuff the blood upon my hands! On 
mine! Oh, hounds of Hell! (She flings herself into 
the burning hut, and dies, shrieking.) 
Harold, (supporting Mary, holding up his wounded 
hand.) So perish all the enemies of Freedom! 



Mm o wM 



